A NEW badminton league in Darlington is appealing for members for next season after announcing its first winners.

The Dolphin Centre Singles Badminton League was formed in February to encourage over-16s to play at their leisure.

John Hall, from Haughton Badminton Club, won the premier league, while divisions one and two were won by Sally Harrison and Scott Iveson, respectively.

The winners will receive their trophies tonight.

The league will restart in January, and is keen to recruit non-club members.

Sally Harrison, who is one such player, said the league "provides a wonderful opportunity for beginners, improvers and experienced players to get together to play badminton and improve their game".

She added: "I have been playing badminton for 14 years and have never joined a club as I didn't feel confident that I was able to play at that level. I just enjoy playing to keep fit, to meet other people and have fun."

Membership of the league is free, and entry forms are available from sports development officer Janet Cooper on (01325) 243188.